Wedged between Honduras to the north and Costa Rica to the south, Nicaragua is one of Central America’s easiest countries to travel around. While it used to have a bad reputation for political instability and high crime rates, things have gotten a lot better and it has now become one of the regions new “hot spots” for backpacking and eco-tourism. When we visited in 2015 we experienced friendly, welcoming people everywhere, plus an amazing array of beautiful landscapes, natural sights, and outdoor activities to explore. From diving at the sleepy Corn Islands with their laid-back Caribbean vibe, to strolling around the grand colonial cities of Leon and Granada, to hiking the imposing volcanoes on Ometepe Island, to volcano boarding Cerro Negro, there are a ton of things to do in this small country.
We only had time to do two proper hikes, but thoroughly enjoyed both of them and can highly recommend these trips. Of course there are countless other volcanoes that can be ascended throughout the rest of the country. Nicaragua is a volcano climber’s paradise! I’m sure we will be back one day.